By Deborah Nnamdi, Port Harcourt
The Okirika Youth Association has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Oando PLC, demanding the settlement of long-overdue land rent for oil wells operating in their community.
The youths said oil wells, previously owned by Agip have been operating for the past six years without paying the host community.
The failure to pay rent has fuelled growing frustrations among the youth and other community members.
The youths, among other grievances, called for the immediate payment of all outstanding land rent, implementation of development projects and environmental remediation, and compensation for the damage caused by oil activities, including pollution of the land and waterways.
They stated that Oando has until Monday, September 30th, 2024 to meet their demands.
They threatened that should the company fail to act within the timeframe, they would occupy all Oando offices nationwide, organize mass protests and rallies, and initiate legal proceedings against the company.
Speaking on behalf of the Okrika Youth Association, Tamuno Joe said: “We have been patient for too long. It’s time for Oando to take responsibility for their actions.
“We will not back down until our demands are met. We will fight for our rights.”
